Some 80% of workers in the building services sector expect stress and mental health issues to have a greater impact on their business in the next five years, according to new research.
The findings come from an occupational health (OH) survey by the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA), the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) and Constructing Better Health which was completed by nearly 400 directors and managers from M&E firms.
Almost a third said that occupational mental health is a “significant” hazard, with a further 55% recognising it as a “minor hazard” to on-site workers.
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Around three-quarters of respondents said they already actively managed OH. Of these firms, 56% said they incorporate managing stress in their OH planning, indicating there is more work to be done.
When asked about the biggest health hazards in the sector, there were few surprises: nine out of 10 firms cited asbestos and eight out of 10 highlighted silica, which between them cause thousands of fatalities across construction. Other hazards cited frequently by respondents included noise, manual handling, and vibration.
ECA director of business services Paul Reeve said: “Occupational health in construction is now firmly on the industry agenda. This sector-wide survey confirms that workplace mental health is an established issue, and that companies expect it to become a more significant challenge in the years ahead.
“Unlike ensuring protection against physical health hazards, employees who face mental challenges may be least able to decide or follow the right course of preventative action. As such, managing occupational mental health can present additional challenges to companies.”
